What should you know about osteoarthritis and psoriatic arthritis?

Osteoarthritis often causes pain that increases with use, stiffness after rest, and reduced movement in a particular joint. Psoriatic arthritis can cause joint pain, swelling, warmth, and morning stiffness; it may involve fingers or toes, the spine, or areas where tendons attach to bone. A person with psoriasis may develop psoriatic arthritis, but skin symptoms and joint symptoms do not always appear together. Joint pain can have many causes, so symptoms alone cannot identify the condition.

A clinician may ask about skin and nail changes, the pattern of affected joints, family history, and how symptoms change during the day. Examination and selected tests help distinguish inflammation from mechanical joint changes.

Keep a brief record of which joints hurt or swell, whether stiffness is worse after waking, and whether movement eases or aggravates it. Gentle regular activity, pacing, and protecting joints during demanding tasks can support function. A tailored physiotherapy plan can work on strength, mobility, and joint protection. Medicines, including anti-inflammatory medication, should be chosen with a clinician because other conditions and medicines affect suitability.

Arrange a clinical assessment for persistent joint pain, repeated swelling, prolonged morning stiffness, or a new change in joint function. Seek prompt medical help for a hot, very swollen joint with fever, sudden inability to use a limb, or severe pain after an injury. New eye pain, light sensitivity, or blurred vision alongside inflammatory joint symptoms also needs urgent assessment.

Which features point toward osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or another cause? Do I need tests or imaging? What activity and physiotherapy plan fits my joints? Which medicines are appropriate with my health history, and what symptoms should prompt a review?